Learn the Skills Your Industry Will Need in the Future

employee engagementYou know it’s important to your career to keep learning new skills, but how do you know which ones to focus on? Start by looking at recent job postings from the top companies in your industry. Notice which qualifications keep popping up; the most common skills are probably the most essential. Next, reach out to people in your network who have a job you may want someday. Ask them what they’ve been learning to succeed in their roles. For example, if you want to know which skills and technologies are valued in sales, talk to some high-level salespeople. Also ask these experts whether they can recommend courses or other materials that will help you gain the skills you’re missing. And don’t feel intimidated about reaching out: Most people are happy to share this information, either because they like helping others or because doing so reinforces their expertise.